Homestead Filing Can Reduce Property Taxes
Eligible Florida homeowners can save about $400–$600 a year by filing for homestead by March 2, 2026, while also limiting future assessed value increases.
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Property owners who qualify for Florida's homestead exemption may be able to reduce their property tax bill by hundreds of dollars each year, according to the Citrus County Property Appraiser's Office. The deadline to apply for the 2026 tax year is March 2, 2026.
Homestead exemption can save eligible homeowners approximately $400 to $600 annually in property taxes, while also offering long-term protections that help limit how quickly a home's assessed value can rise.
Homestead exemption reduces the taxable value of a primary residence, resulting in a lower tax bill. Beyond the immediate yearly savings, the exemption provides additional protection through Florida's assessment limitation, often referred to as the "Save Our Homes" cap.
With a homestead exemption in place, a property's assessed value may not increase more than 3% per year or the rate of inflation, measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI), whichever is lower. This can help protect homeowners from large increases in assessed value over time, keeping property taxes more stable and predictable.
To qualify for homestead exemption for the 2026 tax year, an applicant must own and occupy the property as their permanent residence as of Jan. 1, 2026.
The exemption is only available for a homeowners' primary residence. Applicants may not claim a residency-based exemption on another property in Florida or in any other state.
Documentation is required as part of the application process. Applicants should be prepared to provide updated identification and proof of residence, such as: Florida driver's license, voter registration, vehicle registration and Social Security Number.
All required documents must be provided for all owners residing in the home and/or a spouse.
New homeowners should be aware that homestead exemption does not transfer automatically when a home is purchased. Even if the previous owner had homestead, the exemption does not remain in place for the new owner.
Property taxes can change after a sale because assessed values may reset following a change of ownership. Florida law (F.S. 193.155) requires property assessed under this section to be assessed at just value as of Jan. 1 of the year following a change of ownership. For that reason, new homeowners are encouraged to apply as soon as they are eligible.
Homeowners who move to a new residence must file a new homestead exemption application for their new home. The exemption does not transfer automatically between properties, even if the homeowner previously qualified.
The deadline to apply for homestead exemption for the 2026 tax year is March 2, 2026. Eligible property owners are encouraged to apply early to avoid missing out on potential savings.
Homestead exemption is free to file and can reduce property taxes each year. Residents who qualify and have not yet applied may be paying more in property taxes than necessary.
Cregg Dalton is the Citrus County Property Appraiser
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